Though seemingly by accident, Hyundai has confirmed that the incredible N Vision 74 concept is part of its future production plans. Its 2024 CEO Investor Day was intended to outline the ‘Hyundai Way’, how it will expand its hybrid offerings, revolutionise mobility solutions and keep Genesis ticking along - the usual kind of stuff. But performance EVs were also mentioned, and in the slide that detailed the 21 new Hyundai EVs that were coming by 2030, the Vision 74 was clear for all to see. Clearly, the favourable response to the concept and the Ioniq 5 N has helped twist Hyundai’s arm.
No official mention was made of it in the Investor Day press release, though. ‘The N brand will continue to expand its high-performance EVs, allowing the company to further enhance its strong competitiveness in core EV technology’ was as close as it got to confirming future product. But with an Ioniq 6N surely not very far off, something derived from the Vision 74 would make sense to slot in next. Unless there’s an SUV box to tick first. With 2025 looming closer than we’d like, there’s not a huge amount of time - in car-making terms, at least - to launch a new performance model, especially if a production 74 uses bespoke architecture.
As a reminder, the concept running gear used a very heavily modified Kia Stinger as its base, with power coming from a 62.4kWh battery pack and 85kW hydrogen-powered fuel cell, those supplying a pair of 335hp motors, one for each rear wheel. The really clever bit was the creation of a virtual differential using just the software of the motors. The modular E-GMP architecture used for the Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT was deemed unsuitable for a car that needed low-slung proportions. The presentation makes no mention of FCEV tech at all, though in fairness it barely mentions the Vision 74, so probably best not to draw any hard conclusions just yet.
The important news is it will happen, alongside the Genesis Magma models, meaning Hyundai’s exciting performance EV offering is set to become even more so. “In the electrification era, Hyundai has distinguished itself by rapidly launching a comprehensive lineup of EVs, catering not only to mass-market brands but also to the luxury and high-performance segments,” said Hyundai President and CEO Jaehoon Chang. “Building on our advanced technology and dedication to innovation, we aim to secure a leading position in the market as the adoption of electrified vehicles gains momentum.” The Ioniq 5 N has already caused quite the stir without a conventional rival - could the same happen for the Vision 74?
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